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Museum Evaluation Methods Roundup
Museum Evaluation Methods Roundup

As someone who joined the museum evaluation field relatively recently, there was a lot to learn about evaluative methods as they relate to museums and cultural institutions. Over the years, Kera Collective has published so much insight detailing how we approach our work, so let’s recap some of our favorite resources on our Learning Hub about evaluation methods!

Are We Asking The Wrong Question About Impact?
Are We Asking The Wrong Question About Impact?

Impact is the positive difference something (like a museum) makes in people’s lives. It’s how people’s lives are somehow better because of an experience, interaction, or intervention.  

I most often hear impact referenced in the museum field in terms of measurement. Questions like these are common:

  • How can we measure our museum’s impact? 

  • How can we demonstrate our impact? 

Implicit in these questions is the assumption that impact is happening, and that the real puzzle is in figuring out how to prove it to others. 

But, what makes you so sure impact is happening? And what do you mean by impact in the first place?

Grateful for the Guidance
Grateful for the Guidance

We value lifelong learning, and we are grateful for everyone who shares their wisdom with us, helping us to grow and get better at what we do. This month, we’re sharing some of that wisdom with you, including reflections on relational reciprocity, museum AI policies, and effective report writing.

Can Museums Engage Visitors in Civics?
Can Museums Engage Visitors in Civics?

Recently, for a Kera Collective coffee break, where we talk about relevant research and news, we read this thoughtful post by Sarah Jencks on AAM’s blog about why museums need a civic strategy. It made me think about some resulting general questions: can a museum meaningfully engage in civics? What does it mean for a museum to have a civic strategy? And how can engaging in civics create a reputation of trust for museums when thinking about community work? These are seemingly simple questions, but I believe that museums as institutions have to think deeply about their standing before attempting to incorporate civic engagement.

Museum Audiences Guest Author Museum Audiences Guest Author

Collaboration, Expertise, and Museum Education: Reflections from a COVID-era Furlough

In early April I returned to work after a three month furlough. While being furloughed was not welcome news in an already challenging year for the field of museum education, this period away from my job as an art museum educator gave me ample time to think deeply and reflectively, something that feels in short supply when carrying out my regular duties and schedule.

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